The Center for Effective Government kicked off Sunshine Week with a report recommending steps that Federal agencies can take to become more open. Overall the report gives the Obama administration mixed reviews, with a great deal of criticism on national security issues. (Government Executive)

Today in the continuing saga of Obama’s influence group Organizing for Action: Press Secretary Jay Carney compared the supposedly non-political non-partisan OFA to the political and partisan DCCC, DSCC, and DNC, President Obama is slated to speak at a Wednesday night dinner for large donors to OFA, and other politicians have tread this controversial line in the recent past, specifically NY Governor Andrew Cuomo. (Politico, Washington Post, Roll Call)

Illinois is hoping to spread civic innovation outside of Chicago and into the suburbs and countryside. The Illinois Technology Challenge promises $75,000 in prizes for projects that use state or city data in applications targeted outside of the Windy City. (Tech President)

Mitch McConnell hopped on the #standwithrand fundraising train with an email comparing the two Senators, noting that they will both be likely targets of Democratic attacks, and urging donations to his reelection campaign. (Washington Post)

Former Senator Scott Brown joined a number of former elected officials at Nixon Peabody LLP. He will serve as a counsel in its Boston office, focusing on government and business affairs. (Politico)

Toyota’s North American arm has formed a PAC, which can raise money from eligible employees. The automaker already spends more than $3 million annually on lobbying. (Public Integrity)

RELEVANT BILLS INTRODUCED:

None.

HAPPENING TODAY 3/12:

Sunshine Week!Events are taking place across the country all week long.

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